Join us for another edition of Elektor LabTalk. On Thursday, March 21st at 16:00 CET (11am EDT / 15:00 UTC) Elektor editors Jens Nickel and Brian Tristam Williams meet with new Elektor engineer Saad Imtiaz to talk shop again. This time, about modular electronics. Register here!

The Rise of Modular Electronics

Whether you’re a fan or not, the trend in electronics projects is increasingly leaning toward the use of pre-made modules coupled with simple plug-and-play approaches. Today’s ecosystem is flush with a staggering array of options, such as Click Boards, Grove modules, Arduino shields, Raspberry Pi HATs, and many others. Originally designed for rapid prototyping, these modules are progressively finding their place in actual devices, often proving to be more cost-effective than designing and fabricating custom PCBs. Yet, the transition isn’t always smooth, particularly for beginners who may grapple with compatibility issues or navigate through poor or outdated documentation and software.
 

From Hobbyists to Educators: The Broad Reach of Arduino and Raspberry Pi

In light of Arduino Day and Pi Day celebrations that have just passed, reflecting on the profound impact these platforms have had on the democratization of electronics and education is more relevant than ever. Arduino Day, celebrated on March 16th, and Pi Day, marked on March 14th, serve as vivid reminders of the incredible community and innovation driven by these platforms. They highlight how accessible and “real” electronics can become through the use of modules and development boards.

Elektor engineer Saad Imtiaz and editors Jens Nickel and Brian Tristam Williams will talk about their module experiences in this context. They’re not just sharing insights; they’re eager to hear from you. This is your invitation to join the conversation via chat, especially in the afterglow of Arduino Day and Pi Day. Share your experiences: What hurdles have you faced? And, in your opinion, does working with “module electronics” still qualify as engaging with “real” electronics, particularly in a world where Arduino and Raspberry Pi have become so central to electronics learning and making?
 

More Elektor LabTalk

For more information on upcoming shows, visit the Elektor Lab Talk page. Don't miss this chance to explore the exciting world of AI-driven electronics projects and witness the latest advancements in the field.

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